A Quick Reminder
As 2016 comes to a close and hopefully you are preparing for a restful and relaxing holiday season, I wanted to give you a quick reminder that we are now accepting nominations for GPN’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2017.
Once again, we are looking for the horticulture industry’s best and brightest young talent. We want to recognize those individuals who are really making things happen — and they haven’t even turned 40 yet (as of Jan. 31, 2017).
This is the sixth year for our 40 Under 40 program. Over the previous five classes, it has been so rewarding to recognize the first 200 individuals for their achievements and contributions as they continue to make a difference in our industry.
Now we are looking for the next 40.
Do you know an exceptional individual whose passion, commitment and expertise in horticulture are unparalleled? Do you feel that person will be instrumental in helping to determine where our industry is headed? Is that person making a difference outside of our industry that our readers need to know about?
If you know one of these individuals, we want to know about them too.
The nominations are open to anyone in the horticulture industry (U.S. or international) — growers, breeders, garden center operators, landscapers, researchers, academics, marketers/communicators or scientists — the ones that are creating the future of our industry and they are doing it right now.
We will accept nominations up until January 23, 2017, but why wait? Why not nominate someone today?
Just click here to go to our online nomination form. It will only take a few minutes of your time.
Previously nominated individuals who have not been selected in prior years can be nominated again as long as they have not yet turned 40.
We will recognize the Class of 2017 in the May issue of GPN.
Have a safe and happy holiday season!
Meijer Names New CEO
Michigan-based retailer Meijer has promoted Rick Keyes from president to chief executive officer. Keyes will take over the position from Hank Meijer who will now serve as executive chairman of the board. Keyes is the first non-Meijer family member to head up the 230-store company. The company said the decision to make an adjustment in titles “is based on the company’s desire to align the roles more accurately with current responsibilities.” Keyes started with the company as a pharmacist in 1989.
Lowe’s to Rebrand 40 Rona Stores
Lowe’s has announced plans to convert 40 Rona stores in Canada to the Lowe’s brand beginning in early 2017. The name change is taking place to differentiate the different types and sizes of current Rona stores. The first stores to get the name change will be in the Quebec, Ontario area. Another 17 stores are scheduled to be converted in 2019. Lowe’s purchased the Canadian chain of home improvement stores earlier this year.
Home Depot Makes Commitment to Renewable Energy Sources
The Home Depot recently released its annual corporate responsibility report that highlights its achievements and commitments to sustainable and environmental initiatives. As part of its renewable energy initiative, the company has committed to procuring 135 megawatts of renewable energy by the end of 2020. In pursuit of that goal, the company plans to increase its renewable energy capacity through new solar and wind projects over the next several months. Click here to learn more about Home Depot’s 2016 Responsibility Report.
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